Brain Waves Module 2: Neuroscience: implications for education and lifelong learning
February 2011
Introduction
2 Insights and opportunities
2.1 Both nature and nurture affect the learning brain
2.2 The brain is plastic
2.3 The brain’s response to reward is influenced by expectations and uncertainty
2.4 The brain has mechanisms for self-regulation
2.5 Education is a powerful form of cognitive enhancement
2.6 There are individual differences in learning ability with a basis in the brain
2.7 Neuroscience informs adaptive learning technology
3 Challenges
3.1 The charges of reductionism and determinism
3.2 The inappropriate exploitation of neuroscience
3.3 Building a common language
4 Recommendations
4.1 Strengthening the science base for education
4.2 Informing teacher training and continued professional development
4.3 Informing adaptive technologies for learning and cognitive training
4.4 Building bridges and increasing knowledge of neuroscience